10 BEST AIR PURIFYING INDOOR PLANTS FOR BIOPHILIC DESIGN | Architalktural

10 BEST AIR PURIFYING INDOOR PLANTS FOR BIOPHILIC DESIGN

In our increasingly urbanized world, many of us find ourselves spending more time indoors than ever. Unfortunately, our built environments often lack the visual, tactile, and air-quality elements that inherently connect us to nature—elements we instinctively long for. This is where biophilic design comes into play. By integrating natural materials, ample daylight, scenic views, and lush greenery into our interiors, we can dramatically improve our well-being, lower stress levels, and enrich our surroundings. A highly effective way to achieve this transformation is through the use of indoor plants, which not only bring beauty and texture to our spaces but also purify the air we breathe, making our home or office a healthier haven.

OBJECTIVE

In this blog, we delve into ten exceptional air-purifying plants: the snake plant, spider plant, ZZ plant, pothos, peace lily, monstera, fern, English ivy, cactus, and aloe vera. Each of these plants not only adds visual appeal to your space but also plays a crucial role in improving indoor air quality. No matter your interior design style—be it minimalist, tropical, Scandinavian, or Bohemian—these plants can transform your home into a biophilic oasis, promoting a healthier and more vibrant indoor atmosphere. Embrace nature’s beauty and enhance your living environment with these remarkable plants!

Plant Descriptions

For each plant, I’ll include: key aesthetic/biophilic design contributions, the types of air pollutants they help mitigate, and care tips that support their optimal performance.

Snake Plant

1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria / Dracaena trifasciata)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Tall, upright, sword‑like leaves give strong vertical form; great for defining corners, lining hallways, or structuring a space. Its bold, architectural profile adds contrast in texture (with smoother leaves) and color (often variegated edges or bands). Works well in minimalistic designs as a sculptural element.

• Air Purification Benefits: Known from NASA’s Clean Air Study to remove toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, xylene, and trichloroethylene. It also continues to release oxygen at night (unlike many plants), which makes it good for bedrooms.

• Care: Very low maintenance. Tolerates low light, needs infrequent watering (soil should dry between waterings). Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Strong in neglect.

Spider Plant

2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Its arching, variegated leaves and cascading “spiderettes” (baby offshoots) offer movement, texture, and layers. Hanging baskets and shelves are good locations; its airy structure softens rigid geometry in interiors. Very forgiving plant that gives a lush, relaxed feel.

• Air Purification Benefits: Effective at removing formaldehyde, xylene, and carbon monoxide. Recognized in many surveys/NASA studies. Good at filtering indoor pollutants from furnishings, adhesives, and synthetic materials.

• Care: Prefers bright, indirect light but tolerates moderate shade. Likes moist but well‑draining soil; allow topsoil to dry a bit between waterings. Mist occasionally to reduce dust on the leaves, which helps with air filtering.

ZZ Plant

3. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Glossy, dark green, waxy leaves on upright stems; low, sculptural silhouette. Offers high contrast in tone and sheen; works well as an accent piece or in low‑light parts of the house (since it tolerates shade). Its robustness embodies the “resilience” aspect of biophilic design—forms that endure and adapt.

• Air Purification Benefits: Helps remove VOCs such as benzene, toluene, and xylene. Though less is known compared to some of the classic NASA plants, multiple sources list it among effective air purifiers.

• Care: Very low maintenance. Needs bright indirect to moderate light but tolerates quite low light. Water sparingly; let soil dry between waterings (its rhizomes store water). Keep in well‑draining soil; avoid waterlogging.

Pothos

4. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum, “Golden Pothos,” etc.)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Trailing vines, heart‑shaped leaves often variegated (gold, cream, white, etc.). Excellent for adding soft curves, layering, draping, and green cascades from shelves or hanging planters. Its vines help visually connect the floor, middle, and ceiling levels in a room, supporting spatial biophilic layering.

• Air Purification Benefits: Known to absorb formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene. Very forgiving plant, often used in workplaces and homes for its air-cleaning qualities.

• Care: Thrives in bright, indirect light but tolerates lower light. Keep soil lightly moist, but do not overwater; let the top layer dry somewhat. Regular pruning of vines helps keep aesthetic shape and stimulates fuller growth.

Peace Lily

5. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum spp.)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Elegant white spathes (flowers) contrasting against glossy deep green leaves provide focal interest and a soothing, tranquil presence. Great in low to medium light, good for corners or areas that need a calming feature. Also adds softness through its curved flower and foliage forms.

• Air Purification Benefits: Removes pollutants like benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and ammonia. Also reputed to help reduce mold spores in air and increase indoor humidity (beneficial in dry climates).

• Care: Prefers medium to low indirect light. Soil kept moist (but not waterlogged). Droops visibly when dry (which is a visual cue). Be cautious if there are pets, as parts are toxic if ingested.

Monstera

6. Monstera (Monstera deliciosa, etc.)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Large leaves with split or perforated forms create dramatic shadows and patterns of light through foliage, which is very biophilic. Their scale can give a tropical feel, help fill vertical space, and emphasize lush, nature‑like interiors. Provides a strong “leafy” presence.

• Air Purification Benefits: While Monstera is not always one of the headline plants in older NASA lists, more recent design/houseplant sources include Monstera among those that help improve indoor air quality (removal of VOCs, etc.). Also, its large leaf surface area helps in absorbing pollutants and dust.

• Care: Thrives in bright, indirect light. Needs well‑draining soil and regular watering (keeping soil slightly moist). Likes support (a stake or moss pole) for vertical growth if desired. Avoid direct harsh sun, which can scorch. Also,  dust leaves occasionally to keep stomata open.

Fern

7. Fern (e.g., Boston Fern Nephrolepis exaltata or other indoor fern species)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Feathery, delicate foliage adds softness, texture, and richness. Ferns evoke shade, moisture, and leafy forest understory ambience. Great for humid areas like bathrooms, kitchens; can be used in planters at various heights to create layered green zones.

• Air Purification Benefits: Known to remove formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene; also naturally raises humidity via transpiration, which can help skin and respiratory comfort, and reduce dust.

• Care: Prefer bright, indirect light; keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. High humidity helps; regular misting or use of pebble trays. Sensitive to dry air and over‑drying.

English Ivy

8. English Ivy (Hedera helix)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Trailing or climbing; can cover walls, be trained over trellises; its drape softens harsh lines, adds complexity, and layers. Several cultivars feature variegated leaves, adding visual interest. They can be used in baskets or as groundcover in large planters indoors.

• Air Purification Benefits: Good at removing formaldehyde and other VOCs; also helps reduce airborne fecal particles/mold in some studies—useful for allergy relief.

• Care: Prefers medium to bright indirect light. Keep soil moderately moist; tolerates some dryness but not extended drought. Be mindful that ivy can be toxic if ingested and may require pruning to control spread.

Cactus

9. Cactus (Various succulents/cactus species)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Strong sculptural forms, variety of shapes—from columnar to round, ribbed, or spiky—which can serve as focal points or contrast in texture. Minimalist and drought‑tolerant, often in modern or desert aesthetic‑inspired interiors. Great for small spaces or for people with less time for maintenance.

• Air Purification Benefits: While cacti are not always the most prominent in VOC‑removing plant lists compared to some others, succulents in general help with absorbing CO₂, releasing oxygen, and reducing some pollutants; they also help stabilize humidity and may help trap dust or particles on their surfaces. Some sources list “succulents and cacti” among the overall category of air purifiers.

• Care: Require bright light; soil must be well‑draining; water infrequently (allow soil to dry between waterings). Overwatering is the most common cause of failure. Use containers with drainage.

Aloe Vera

10. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis / related species)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Succulent form, fleshy leaves with interesting colors and textures (often a bit glossier, occasionally with pale spotting, and with architectural symmetry). Has a clean, modern yet natural feel. Also, it  is multi‑functional—gel inside has soothing properties. Good for windowsills, kitchens, bathrooms—places where its practical uses can be part of its appeal.

• Air Purification Benefits: Identified in studies/lists as helping to remove formaldehyde and benzene. It can also contribute to oxygen production, though not especially at night (unlike the snake plant). Also serves as a low‑maintenance purifier.

• Care: Needs bright, indirect to direct light; minimal watering; well‑draining succulent or cactus mix. Allow the soil to dry out substantially between watering to avoid root rot. Occasional dusting.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Introducing air-purifying plants into your interior spaces does more than enhance visual appeal—it actively promotes essential aspects of biophilic design. These elements foster a connection with nature, provide sensory richness through diverse textures, forms, and colors, soften harsh edges, and significantly improve air quality. Such plants not only elevate the aesthetics of your space with their vibrant greenery and structure but also play a crucial role in reducing harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs), mold spores, and other indoor pollutants. Embrace the power of nature indoors for a healthier and more inviting environment!

When selecting and placing plants, consider the following to maximize both design and purification benefits:

• Distribute greenery throughout the room (not just in one corner) to increase surface area for filtering and to support visual layering.

• Match plant choices to the light, humidity, and care capacity you have—inappropriate conditions reduce both aesthetic vibrancy and purification efficacy.

• Use plants as accents or focal points: large-leaf plants like monstera, upright ones like snake plant, trailing ones like pothos or ivy, and ones with flowers like peace lily.

• Maintain them well: clean leaves (dust blocks stomata), water correctly, avoid overcrowding, and replace if plants get unhealthy.

Although one or two houseplants may not fully replace the need for ventilation or mechanical air filtration in polluted environments, integrating them with proper airflow, eliminating sources of indoor toxins (like certain paints and cleaning agents), and using a variety of plants can greatly enhance the quality of your indoor environment. Investing in plants is a simple, effective way to breathe easier and create a healthier home.

In short, by weaving in these ten plants, you can design interiors that feel alive, calming, and healthier—a hallmark of biophilic design in practice.

Ar J CASTANEDA

Architect, Sustainable Architecture

Link in account for architectural works.

Linktree account for artworks.

CITATIONS:

https://www.almanac.com/10-indoor-plants-clean-air

https://www.mdessmarket.com/blog/plants-that-clean-the-air

https://houseplant101.com/blog/air-purifying-plants/

https://airpurityguide.com/what-plants-are-good-for-air-purification/

https://aquascape.ae/product/zamioculcas-zamiifolia-air-purifier-plant/

https://homebagh.com/blogs/news/top-air-purifying-indoor-plants-for-a-healthier-home

https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/best-indoor-plants

PHOTO ATTRIBUTIONS

001 Snake Plant pexels-rosana-solis-385478-3718448

002 Spider Plant pexels-fotios-photos-4753285

003 Raven ZZ Plant pexels-valeriiamiller-8525199

004 Pothos pexels-rdne-8580784

005 Peace Lily pexels-alinaskazka-14939905

006 Monstera pexels-avonnephoto-6597437

007 Fern pexels-hellokellybrito-322342

008 English Ivy pexels-plantsandgraphics-7365049

009 Cactus pexels-scottwebb-7167634

010 Aloe Vera pexels-jvdm-1581101

011 Cover Photo pexels-huy-phan-316220-3076899

BOHO STYLE MEETS SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE: Designing Eco-Friendly and Free-Spirited Spaces | Architalktural

 

Boho Style Living Room

BOHO STYLE MEETS SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE: Designing Eco-Friendly and Free-Spirited Spaces

When envisioning boho-style architecture, many people picture vibrant textiles, eclectic furniture, aesthetic colors, and lush indoor greenery—all elements that exude a free-spirited and artistic charm. In contrast, sustainable architecture often brings to mind eco-friendly materials, energy efficiency, and a commitment to protecting our planet. At first glance, these two concepts may appear to be worlds apart: one rooted in aesthetic expression and lifestyle, the other centered on environmental ethics. However, a closer inspection reveals that boho style and sustainability are not only compatible but also beautifully interconnected, creating spaces that are both visually stunning and environmentally responsible.

OBJECTIVE

In today's environmentally conscious world, a new trend is emerging within the world of architectural design – the “sustainable bohemian design.” This approach blends the traditional bohemian spirit with a strong commitment to eco-friendly practices, ethical sourcing, and mindful consumption. If you're attracted to the charm of bohemian design but want your home to reflect your values, “sustainable bohemian interior design” provides a unique and fulfilling option. Having explored various architectural styles, I find that "Boho" or "Bohemian" style aligns closely with "sustainable architecture." This is due to the incorporation of key architectural elements that promote a sustainable lifestyle for the building's occupants.

In this blog, I will discuss the key elements of Boho design to enhance your awareness and reading enjoyment. Discover how Boho style architecture aligns with sustainable design principles. Learn how natural materials, upcycling, and a love for nature make bohemian-inspired spaces both eco-friendly and timeless.

BOHO STYLE DESIGN DEFINED IN GENERAL TERMS AND A LITTLE HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

I tried to look for the term boho or bohemian style architecture on Wikipedia.com, for our definition, but they only have it in general terms, mostly referring to fashion and lifestyle. However, according to them, the Bohemian style, often referred to as 'Boho chic,' is a fashion and lifestyle choice characterized by its unconventional and free-spirited essence. While its exact origins are debated, Bohemian style is believed to have been influenced by the nomadic lifestyle of the Romani people from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. The term 'Bohemian' itself comes from the French word 'Bohémien,' which was originally associated with the Roma community due to a historical misconception that they originated from Bohemia, a region in the Czech Republic. Throughout history, Bohemian fashion has undergone significant transformations, reflecting the cultural shifts and influences of each era. 

Today, contemporary Bohemian fashion embraces flowing fabrics, vibrant colors, and natural, woven materials, rather than knitted ones. I believe this definition also applies to architecture and interior design for furniture fabrics, and other elements. This style draws inspiration from various sources, including the counterculture movements of the 1960s and 1970s, reminiscent of the attire worn by attendees of the inaugural Woodstock music festival. The Bohemian style has gained global popularity, appealing to individuals seeking a unique and individualistic approach to fashion and lifestyle. It encourages a sense of freedom and self-expression, often attracting those who prefer to live unconventionally—sometimes in a nomadic manner—and who may choose to reside in colonies or communes, fostering a strong sense of community. 

KEY ELEMENTS OF BOHO STYLE ARCHITECTURE

1. A Love for Natural Materials

Boho design aesthetically incorporates materials such as wood, rattan, bamboo, clay, linen, and wool. These choices not only enhance warmth and texture but also align with sustainable design principles that emphasize the use of renewable, biodegradable, and locally sourced materials. By opting out of synthetic products and mass-produced finishes, both styles champion authenticity and eco-friendly living, inviting you to create a more conscious and inviting space.

Rattan furniture is made of natural material.

2. Upcycling and Reuse as a Lifestyle

Boho style stands out for its unique blend of vintage treasures, repurposed décors, and artisanal creations. This emphasis on items that are “collected over time” perfectly aligns with sustainability's circular philosophy—extending the life of materials and reducing waste. By choosing thrifted furniture, heirlooms, and repurposed pieces, you not only embrace a narrative rich in history but also play a vital role in lessening the demand for new resource extraction. Embrace boho style, and make a positive impact on our planet!

3. A Deep Connection to Nature

Boho interiors thrive on the beauty of indoor plants, earthy tones, and a harmonious layout that cultivates a soothing atmosphere. This aesthetic resonates with the principles of biophilic design in sustainable architecture, which promotes natural light, fresh airflow, and vibrant greenery to enhance the well-being of occupants. By embracing these concepts, we can create spaces that not only uplift and inspire but also reconnect individuals with the tranquility of nature, ultimately leading to healthier and more joyful living environments.

Biophilic Bohemian Style Bedroom

4. Supporting Local Craftsmanship

Embracing handmade textiles, artisanal furniture, and locally sourced décor is vital to achieving the essence of boho design. This not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also supports sustainable architecture by bolstering local economies and cutting down on transportation emissions. By choosing handcrafted pieces over mass-produced items, you not only enrich your space with cultural authenticity but also champion environmental responsibility, making a positive impact on our world.

5. Flexibility and Longevity

Boho style embodies the essence of adaptability, seamlessly combining layers of furniture and décor that evolve over time, telling unique personal stories instead of chasing fleeting trends. Similarly, sustainable architecture champions versatile spaces that adjust to the changing needs of their occupants, effectively reducing waste and the financial burden of constant renovations. Both celebrate longevity and flexibility, making them far superior to disposable, short-term solutions that ultimately undermine our living environments.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Boho style architecture celebrates aesthetic freedom and individuality, while sustainable architecture prioritizes ecological responsibility. However, these two styles share a powerful connection: they both promote authenticity, foster natural connections, and encourage thoughtful living. When combined, they produce spaces that are not only visually captivating but also environmentally considerate—homes that weave narratives while honoring the planet. The vibrant spirit of boho creativity harmonizes seamlessly with sustainable principles, illustrating that design and responsibility can truly thrive together. This fusion invites us to embrace a lifestyle that is both stylish and conscientious, proving that we do not have to compromise on one for the other.

Ar J CASTANEDA

Architect, Sustainable Architecture

Link in account for architectural works.

Linktree account for artworks.

CITATIONS AND PHOTO ATTRIBUTIONS:

DEFINITION OF BOHEMIAN STYLE:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bohemian_style

Photos are original copyrighted materials owned by Architalktural.

BIOPHILIC DESIGN: Creating Green Buildings for Life (Part 3) | Architalktural

 

Inner Courtyard, Biophilic Design

BIOPHILIC DESIGN: Creating Green Buildings for Life (Part 3)

PART 3: Real World Application of Biophilic Design

In today’s fast-paced and urbanized world, many of us spend most of our days surrounded by concrete walls, glass partitions, and artificial lighting, often feeling like we're living in a submarine, cut off from the natural world outside. This disconnection from nature has quietly influenced our lives, leading to stress, fatigue, and a yearning for the outdoors. However, architecture and design have the power to bridge this gap. Through biophilic design—a thoughtful approach that integrates natural elements into our built environments—architects and designers can transform sterile spaces into environments that promote well-being, creativity, and harmony. By reintroducing sunlight, greenery, natural textures, and the subtle rhythms of nature into our everyday surroundings, biophilic design addresses the pressing issue of disconnection, reminding us that our environments should not only shelter us but also help us thrive.

OBJECTIVE

This is the third and last episode of our mini-series on the subject of Biophilic Design. So, perhaps you may want to go through the previous two parts first for a better understanding of the entire series:

BIOPHILIC DESIGN: Creating Green Buildings for Life (Part 1)

BIOPHILIC DESIGN: Creating Green Buildings for Life (Part 2)

After defining and examining the various categories of biophilic design, it's essential to transition from theory to practical application. In this episode, I highlight three compelling case studies that exemplify effective real-world applications. These authors have thoroughly reviewed their reference materials, enabling us to extract valuable insights from their findings. Additionally, I will share my personal perspectives drawn from my professional experiences and education, resulting in a well-rounded and engaging exploration for your reading pleasure.

THREE SELECTED CASE STUDIES

After we have discussed the categories of human experiences with nature, it is essential that we dive into a deeper understanding of Biophilic Design through discussing on the applications through actual case studies. Each case studies offers unique information on the benefits of nature into our well being.

CASE STUDY 1: VETERAN’S CENTRE GASHAKA, TARABA STATE

“ENHANCING HUMAN HEALTH AND RECOVERY THROUGH BIOPHILIC DESIGN” 

Author: MANGSHIN GODFREY MOHORSHIN, M.Sc. ARCHITECTURE

Description: A RESEARCH THESIS SUBMITTED TO UNIVERSITY OF JOS, NIGERIA on April 2019

After reading this feasibility study, I found it to be a good example of a project that if implemented, would very well apply the principles of “biophilic design.” The author, Arch’t Mangshin is familiar with Wilson’s theory as he defines, “It is a known belief that humans have a connection and a reliance on nature that has been passed along throughout evolution (Wilson, 1984). According to Wilson (1984, 1993) contact with nature is essential to human health and well being.” Based on this theory, Mangshin conducted this study to be able to design a rehabilitation facility for the war veterans in their country, Nigeria. Mangshin believes that a biophilic design is an essential concept that can, and should be applied to all projects of this kind. He is advocating on this architectural concept and appealing to their government for consideration.

A few architectural elements are employed by Architect Mangshin in his study of a biophilic designed rehabilitation facility such as natural materials, natural lighting, vegetation, presence of water, fractal geometry, natural shapes and form, place based relationship, passive ventilation, and mobility, all of which covers the three key categories of biophilic design which we discussed in Part 2 of this blog series.

In Mangshin’s “space organization section,” he ensures that the building circulation must be easy for the staff to manage; layout and routes should be clear; consideration for noise, type of activity, likely timing of activities and age groups when locating facilities. A reception area or office at or near the entrance will assist in the monitoring of activities and provide a focal point for information and organization. This relates to the application of “mobility” principle as categorized under the “Experience of Space and Place,” from the preceding episode.

According to Mangshin, “The combination of natural materials and vegetation integrated into the indoor environment has not only shown positive impacts among sick patients, but also to healthy people as well. Individuals associated with indoor spaces that incorporate natural vegetation and views to nature are found to have lower stress levels, increased productivity, better focus, higher moral character and even have the ability to heal from sickness at faster rates.” He even shows how biophilic design concept is incorporated in the standard design framework for a rehabilitation center as shown below:

As Mangshin concludes, he describes the uniqueness of a rehabilitation project when biophilic design principles are applied. He said, “By establishing an inspiring and enjoyable experience that cohesively integrates our natural and built environments will provide veterans with a new kind of facility that will utilize a unique approach to enhancing the lifestyles of those who have given so much for us.” He recommends that their government should provide more treatment facilities that will help in restoring and rehabilitating retiring and serving war veterans suffering from one form of post traumatic stress disorder or the other, and also emphasize on making the centers more supportive and therapeutic by the application of biophilic design techniques. Additionally he says this message to fellow designers: “There is need for architects to make it of paramount importance to incorporate biophilic design principles in the design of restorative and rehabilitative environments and other relevant facilities in order to enhance the stay of the patients as well as the staffs for their well being."

I can attest from the drawings that biophilic design has been extensively applied as seen on the floor plans and elevations, especially the vegetations are properly distributed on the landscape as seen in the site development plan. There are inner courts provided that accomodate not only lush gardens, but passive ventilation and natural lighting.

NOTE: For other designs and drawings, please refer to the citation section.

CASE STUDY 2: THE WELLBEING OF THE USERS IN THE APARTMENTS REGARDING BIOPHILIC DESIGN: CASES IN FAMAGUSTA

Author: CEMRE TÜRKOĞLU, AFET ÇELİKER COŞKUN

Affiliation: EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN UNIVERSITY, NC.

Description: A survey research work submitted 2024

The research employs both qualitative and quantitative methods, including interviews and surveys with local and immigrant residents. Four apartments in Famagusta, a historically significant city in North Cyprus, have been chosen for this study. The aim is to explore the negative impacts of apartment living on families and to offer insights for creating improved living environments.

According to the authors, Cemre and Afet, the Famagusta area is experiencing rising population density and increased construction, leading to a greater reliance on concrete that created challenge for residents to engage with nature. Buildings constructed primarily for economic reasons often result in inadequate cross ventilation, limited sunlight, and a lack of outdoor spaces—elements considered essential in Cyprus's traditional housing. Residents have also expressed concerns about summer insects, particularly mosquitoes, and unpleasant odors from nearby regions, which negatively affect their health and overall quality of life. Additionally, the designs of new developments often lack innovative and creative solutions to meet the demands of modern living. At the same time, the younger population in Cyprus is becoming increasingly disconnected from nature. The destruction of parks and natural ecosystems could lead to more serious problems in the future. Furthermore, the prevalence of small residences that are unsuited for family life and devoid of natural elements can adversely affect the elderly and those confined to their homes due to illness or other concerns. These issues have been studied and analyzed in detail. Famagusta is bordered by the sea to the east, the green line (the border with the Greek side) to the south, and a UK military base to the west.

As a result of the survey and interviews conducted, residents of Famagusta have been observed to prefer a more minimalist lifestyle compared to the past. Regardless of their proximity to nature, they actively seek natural elements in their living environments. Many residents express a desire for parks for children to be located near their buildings. In contrast, those living in areas without nearby parks view this absence negatively, particularly families. The highest percentage of residents feeling good at home is found in Alasya Park, while the lowest percentage is reported in Erbatu. In terms of satisfaction with the view from their homes, Laguna Apartment significantly outperforms other locations. Additionally, individuals who believe their surroundings offer adequate nature and well-being are most common in Alasya Park and Park View. As expected, Erbatu received the lowest ratings across all evaluated criteria.

Based on the data gathered from the research, Cemre and Afet propose the following recommendations to enhance the environmental quality and cultural relevance of Famagusta for future studies:

1. Incorporate more natural and locally-sourced materials, especially those with unique scents and textures that can positively impact the atmosphere.

2. Launch educational initiatives aimed at residents of Famagusta to raise awareness about the benefits of using local materials, addressing the current lack of information on this topic.

3. Introduce more greenery, water features, and recreational areas for children in communal spaces to promote well-being and community engagement.

4. Prioritize comprehensive environmental assessments and analyses before starting any construction projects to ensure a deeper understanding of the local ecosystem and its dynamics.

5. Foster a more integrated urban fabric that celebrates Famagusta's multicultural identity while harmonizing with its unique climate, thereby promoting inclusivity and sustainability.

Cemre and Afet team concludes: “Designers play a crucial role in enhancing the ambiance of spaces while mitigating external nuisances such as odors and noise. This can be achieved by creating clean and natural environments and optimizing projects to maximize natural light and airflow. Effective project analysis is key, considering the diverse needs of individuals, influenced by factors like climate and culture.

Research indicates that incorporating biophilic elements can significantly enhance well-being in residential settings and improve the quality of life for families. Numerous studies such as Kaplan have highlighted the health benefits associated with environments that incorporate elements of nature, sought after by individuals seeking both physical and psychological well-being. Similar results were observed in Cyprus, emphasizing the importance of integrating biophilic design principles into urban environments.”

Below are images of Cyprus apartments provided by the authors. Please see photo attributions below.

CASE STUDY 3: EXPLORING BIOPHILIC ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN CONCEPTS AND THE IMPORTANCE OF BRINGING INDOOR SPACES TO LIFE FOR HUMAN COMFORT AND WELLBEING

Submitted by: Evelyn Gyasi

For her Doctorate in Architecture Course in Atlantic International University on July 2022

The author, Evelyn Gyasi’s concern about the health and well being of building occupants drives her to make this study. According to her, most of the occupants live a higher percentage indoor than outdoors. She said, “In our cities today, many buildings especially high￾rise buildings designed and constructed now can be likened to submarines: completely sealed, with an artificial environment. A person can be so close to the glass window but cannot experience the fresh air and smell of the plants right behind that window and the feel of the natural light from the sun's rays, The sound of birds, pets, and human movements, etc.”

She added, “This has become a wake-up call to some designers who have considered having significant attention to interior spaces designed for human habitation. The purpose of this paper is to understand the essence of biophilic Architecture and the need to bring buildings and spaces to life for positive environmental impact and human wellbeing. This kind of architecture is called living architecture that addresses strategies and concepts of biophilia in architecture (Amany R, 2015)”

NOTE: There isn’t any architectural design projects submitted except for a few illustrations which I am going to share for a thorough understanding of the study objective.

The author referenced a study conducted by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD), which involved an experiment in a multi-story office building that housed a call center on one of its floors. This call center featured large windows that offered views of trees outside, excellent natural lighting, and raised floors with vents that occupants could control. The space demonstrated strong thermal performance and high indoor air quality, ultimately earning a LEED Gold certification. In this setup, the workstations were positioned perpendicular to the windows, as illustrated in Diagram 1. However, since employees needed to concentrate on their computer monitors, viewing the outside scenery required them to either turn their entire bodies or rotate their necks. (Browning, 2015).

This furniture arrangement is a solid concept; however, a simple adjustment by rotating the workstation a few degrees toward the windows made a remarkable impact, as illustrated in Diagram 2. This minor modification allowed occupants to easily notice the movement of trees outside, prompting them to take occasional glances out the window. Such visual diversions provide a refreshing break from their screens, allowing eye muscles to relax and shifting their focus to the soothing, distant views. These brief moments of distraction lead to valuable mental pauses that can significantly restore cognitive focus. Although the initial investment for the workstation was around $1,000 per occupant, the results of this experiment revealed a striking increase in the staff's call handling capabilities by more than 6 percent. This improvement translated into substantial savings of approximately $3,000 per occupant, effectively tripling the original installation cost. Investing in this straightforward change not only enhances well-being but also delivers impressive returns. (Browning, 2015)

In her conclusion, the author, Evelyn Gyasi emphasized the insights from Sami Miera’s enlightening webinar on "How to Design Healthy Spaces" which revealed that designers have access to a rich array of biophilic strategies aimed at enhancing health and well-being in their creations. While exploring these strategies, this study highlighted 14 evidence-based techniques that can be seamlessly incorporated into projects of any scale. This research has illuminated the imperative for her to elevate her design principles, focusing on the creation of spaces that nurture both psychological and physiological well-being. From the provided strategies, she has selected six impactful biophilic concepts: environmental elements, natural form, natural patterns, light and space, space relationship and evolved human/nature relationship. These concepts not only serve to heighten public and client awareness but also provide a solid foundation for any future projects she undertakes, setting a standard for spaces that truly promote wellness.

FINAL THOUGHTS

I have come to understand just how expansive the topic of "biophilic design" truly is. At first, I believed it was merely about the connection between humans and nature. However, the remarkable research by esteemed experts such as Erich Fromm and Edward Wilson has truly opened my eyes. Moreover, it’s fascinating to discover that the roots of this concept extend back to the ancient Hanging Gardens of Babylon and the use of inner courtyards by historic designers. The authors of the case studies I’ve explored share a common goal: they passionately advocate for revitalizing what we now refer to as "biophilic design." I stand firmly with their vision and urge everyone to embrace this movement. Together, we can foster designs that enrich our lives and reconnect us with the natural world. Join us on this important journey!

Ar J CASTANEDA

Architect, Sustainable Architecture

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CITATIONS AND PHOTO ATTRIBUTIONS:

CASE STUDY 1

https://www.academia.edu/Documents/in/Biophilic_Design_the_Theory_Science_and_Practice_of_Bringing_Buildings_to_Life?nbs=ri

CASE STUDY 2

https://www.academia.edu/125684093/THE_WELLBEING_OF_THE_USERS_IN_THE_APARTMENTS_REGARDING_BIOPHILIC_DESIGN_CASES_IN_FAMAGUSTA

CASE STUDY 3

https://www.academia.edu/90683258/EXPLORING_BIOPHILIC_ARCHITECTURAL_DESIGN_CONCEPTS_AND_THE_IMPORTANCE_OF_BRINGING_INDOOR_SPACES_TO_LIFE_FOR_HUMAN_COMFORT_AND_WELL_BEING

COVER PHOTO IS AN ORIGINAL POST BY ARCHITALKTURAL, COPYRIGHT ARCHITALKTURAL, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

OTHER PHOTOS CREDITED TO THE RIGHTFUL OWNERS REFERENCED ON RESPECTIVE CASE STUDIES FEATURED IN THIS BLOG.